The New Royal Enfield - Thunderbird 500. Overview

The new Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500 was recently unveiled in 2012 auto expo - New Delhi. It has a complete new design, style and packed with many new features and technology. Unlike the usual Royal Enfield bikes this cruiser is completely a new change and a  distinct one. An entire new look and design. Lot of new things and the retro styling made this bike to new fresh feel from its existing predecessors.

So whats new in Thunderbird 500 ? We'll see it here.

To say it frank, Royal Enfield has taken its technology to the next level.

The new Thunderbird 500 is equipped with 55w projector headlights. It provides better lighting and also increases the majestic look of the bike. The projectors provide better visibility whether it is city riding or cruising in highways.

A 499.5 cc electronically fuel injected, twin spark UCE (Unit construction Engine)  powers up the new TB 500. The engine has a black matte finish. It provides a glossy new look and style to the engine. More refined and more power of 27.2 BHP with 41.3 Nm of torque.

The design of fuel tank is changed little bit and the fuel tank cap is shifted slightly to the right. The capacity of the tank is also increased to 20 litres when compared to its predecessor TB 350 which is of 13.5 litres capacity. The fuel tank is also lowered a bit when compared to TB 350.

The speedometer has a LCD display which assists two trip meters. It gives a new console to bike. The right is a tachometer to display engine RPM's.

The tails are equipped with LED warning lights which is also new to the Royal Enfield motorcycles. It also specializes new grab rails at the rear.

TB also has split seats and rear disc brakes the first of its kind from the Royal Enfield. The split seat has a storage space inside it. The seats are positioned to provide very comfortable rides.

The foot pegs are placed at a certain angle for easy shifting of gears and also for easy application of brakes.

New design exhaust muffler, wider tyres, newly positioned handle bars and rear view mirrors gives a stylish feel of the new Thunderbird 500.

The new TB 500 is available in 3 shades. Midnight black, matte metallic black and arctic winter black. This bike is expected to be released in mid of 2012. The pricing has not been disclosed yet. But the price is expected to be 10k more than the classic 500 chrome version.

Tech Specs

Engine

 

Type: Single Cylinder, 4 stroke, Twinspark

Displacement: 499cc

Bore x stroke: 84mm x 90mm

Compression Ratio: 8.5:1

Maximum Power: 27.2 bhp @ 5250 rpm

Maximum Torque: 41.3 Nm @ 4000 rpm

Ignition System: Digital Electronic Ignition

Clutch: Wet,multi-plate

Gearbox: 5 Speed Constant Mesh

Lubrication: Wet sump

Engine Oil: 15 W 50 API, SL Grade JASO MA

Fuel Supply: Keihin Electronic Fuel Injection

Air Cleaner: Paper Element

Engine Start: Electric/Kick

Chassis & Suspension

Type: Single downtube, using engine as stressed member

Front suspension: Telescopic, 41mm forks, 130mm travel

Rear suspension: Twin gas charged shock absorbers with 5-step adjustable preload, 80mm travel

Brakes & Tyres
 

Tyres Fr.90/90 - 19

Tyres Rr.120/80 - 18

Brakes Front: 280mm Disc, 2-Piston caliper

Brakes Rear: 240mm Disc, Single piston caliper

Dimensions

Wheelbase: 1350mm

Ground Clearance: -

Length: 2060mm

Width: 895mm

Height: 1300mm

Kerb Weight: 195 Kg

Fuel Capacity: 20 Ltr

Electricals

Electrical System: 12 volt - DC

Battery: 12 volt, 14 Ah

Head Lamp: Projection type headlamp, H7 55 / 55 W

Tail Lamp: LED lamp with position light guides

Turn Signal: LampHazard Light featured for the first time on an Indian motorcycle.

(courtesy: Royal Enfield)

As overall it is a blend of power, style and technology which is essential and necessary for a cruiser concept. I hope the TB 500 will surely satisfy all the Royal Enfield fans.